Two police inspectors were shot dead on Saturday night after gunmen attacked a police patrol team in Enugu State, carting away rifles and ammunition during the operation.
The incident occurred along Zik Avenue, near Good Shepherd Specialist Hospital, where officers attached to the Distress Response Squad (DRS) were conducting a routine patrol.
The attackers reportedly struck around 8:30 p.m., taking the officers by surprise.
According to security sources familiar with the incident, the assailants arrived in an ash-coloured Lexus RX 350 SUV and immediately opened fire on the patrol team.
The police Hilux vehicle was subsequently set ablaze, leaving the officers with no chance to respond effectively.
The slain officers were later identified as Inspectors Valentine Iheme and Ani Anayo, both members of the DRS.
During the attack, the gunmen reportedly seized three AK-47 rifles, each loaded with 30 rounds of live ammunition.
A senior security source described the incident as a “coordinated and deliberate assault on law enforcement,” adding that the attackers appeared to have monitored the patrol route before launching the operation.
Meanwhile, the Enugu State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
Tactical units and operational assets have been deployed across strategic locations within and around the state to track down the suspects and recover the stolen firearms.
“The command has activated all available resources to ensure those behind this attack are apprehended,” a police source said.
“We are determined to neutralise the threat and prevent further violence.”
Furthermore, the police leadership in the state has assured residents that the killings will not go unanswered.
Authorities stressed that the safety of Enugu residents remains a priority despite the setback.
The attack has heightened security concerns in the area, particularly around Zik Avenue and adjoining neighbourhoods, as residents call for increased patrols and intelligence-led operations.
Police investigations are ongoing, while residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.